Behind the most well-known mathematical constant in the world: Pi Day

Happy Pi Day

Off the Grid: Sally analysis Pi Day, the daily crossword puzzle from USA TODAY

Pi Day is observed globally on March 14, or 3/14 according to American custom, in honour of the most well-known estimate (3.14) of the mathematical constant Pi.

Initiated in 1988 by physicist Larry Shaw of the Exploratorium museum in San Francisco, the practice has gained worldwide recognition. Mathematicians attempt to increase general public awareness of their field on this day by holding lectures, museum exhibits, and pie-eating contests.

Pi Day was declared the International Day of Mathematics in 2019 by the 40th General Conference of UNESCO.

What is Pi ?

The most well-known of all mathematical constants is pi, which is frequently symbolized by the Greek letter π. It is the ratio of a circle’s diameter (a straight line that passes through the center of the circle) to its circumference (its boundary). This ratio is constant regardless of the size of the circle.

Pie-Eating Contests Pie-eating contests are a common feature of Pi Day celebrations in the United States. Commons/Wikimedia Representational
Pi is an irrational number that is best approximated as 3.14 or the fraction 22/7. It is a decimal with no end and no repeating pattern.

In what way is pi calculated ?

Since at least 4,000 years ago, people have understood the significance of Pi. According to Petr Beckman’s 1970 book A History of Pi, “by 2,000 BC, men had grasped the significance of the constant that is today denoted by π, and that they had found a rough approximation of its value.”


The ancient Babylonians and Egyptians arrived at their own measurements, most likely by sketching a circle of a certain diameter and then calculating its circumference with a rope of that same diameter in length. The value of pi was determined by the Babylonians to be 25/8 (3.125), but the ancient Egyptians determined it to be (16/9)^2 (around 3.16).

The method for calculating Pi, which was in use until the 17th century, was developed by the Greek polymath Archimedes (c. 287–212 BCE). The individual came to the realisation that the diameter of a circle is bigger than the perimeter of a similar polygon circumscribed around the circle, while the circumference of a regular polygon with ‘n’ sides inscribed within it is smaller. This allowed him to compute the bounds that the value of Pi must fall between.

Now, this polygon becomes increasingly similar to the shape of a circle as more and more sides are added. After 96-sided polygons were attained, Archimedes demonstrated that 223/71 < Pi < 22/7 (that is, 3.14084 < π < 3.142858 in decimal notation).

However, this method’s major drawback is how labor-intensive it is. For example, the calculation of Pi to 35 decimal places took the Dutch mathematician Ludolph van Ceulen (1540-1610) an incredible thirty years.

It would be none other than Isaac Newton (1643–1727), who greatly streamlined the Pi calculation procedure. In 1666, he used calculus, which he and mathematician Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz (1646–1713) discovered, to compute Pi to sixteen decimal places. It would now only take a few days to calculate what had taken years for mathematicians in the past.

Pi was originally determined by French mathematician Thomas Fantet de Lagny (1660–1734) to 112 accurate decimal places by 1719. This approach can now determine Pi’s value to 31 trillion (1012) decimal places thanks to contemporary computers.

Nevertheless, put forth all this work ?

The world is full of circles. The proportion of Pi also applies to three-dimensional forms like spheres, cones, and cylinders. Therefore, there are several very useful applications in the domains of engineering, design, and architecture when one knows the value of pi. The value of Pi is essential in many different fields, from building water storage tanks to designing sophisticated equipment for satellites.

The Pi 31 trillion digit computation, however, is not as plainly “useful.” Pi needs to be calculated to approximately 39 decimal places in order to complete all computations in the observable universe with nearly minimal error, even though Archimedes’ calculation was quite sufficient for all practical purposes that Pi was employed for in his day. Given this, why do mathematicians obsess about the number?

Regardless of the benefits it may have in real life, there is, of course, the rather esoteric notion that knowledge is worthwhile in and of itself. There are additional reasons, though, why Pi is attractive. The joy of Pi, in part, lies in its ability to make infinity accessible, as mathematician Steven Strogatz, author of the critically acclaimed The Joy of X: A Guided Tour of Math, from One to Infinity (2012), stated in an article for The New Yorker in 2015. Even small kids understand this. No pattern ever emerges, and the Pi digits never stop. They continue endlessly and appear to be random, but they are unable to be random since they represent the order that permeates a perfect circle.

What does Pi Day mean in terms of numbers ?

Since the number π is irrational, it cannot be represented as a straightforward fraction and its decimal form never ends. In geometry, trigonometry, and other scientific and technical fields, it is a fundamental mathematical constant that is widely utilised. The first three digits of the mathematical constant, 3.14, are represented by the numbers 1, 2, and 4 in the Pi Day date.

Pi Day is usually celebrated on March 14 (or 3/14 in the month/day format), though there have also been associated events on other occasions.
Since the fraction 22⁄7 is a widely used approximation of π, which dates from Archimedes and is accurate to two decimal places, Pi Approximation Day is honoured on July 22 (22/7 in the day/month date format).
June 28 is designated as Two Pi Day, or Tau Day (6/28 in the month/day format).

Since November 10 is the 314th day of the year, some people also commemorate Pi on that day.

Pi Day is a reason to celebrate pie’s deliciousness as well as the mathematical constant. Pie (the dessert) and pi (π) have a playful relationship that makes the celebration more approachable and fun for a wider audience.

To sum up, Pi Day is a special and entertaining way to celebrate both mathematics and delicious food. Its significance stems from the mathematical constant π and its fun link with pie. Additionally, there are opportunities to celebrate the varied and delectable world of pies in all their forms on a number of pie-related days observed worldwide. This is a day to enjoy both culinary and intellectual treats, whether you’re a math whiz or a pie lover.

Conclusion

Pi Day stands as a celebration not only of a fundamental mathematical constant but also of the boundless curiosity and ingenuity of the human mind. From ancient civilizations meticulously approximating the value of π to the modern era’s computational feats pushing the boundaries of precision, Pi Day encapsulates the enduring quest for knowledge and understanding.

Beyond its mathematical significance, Pi Day fosters a sense of community and enjoyment, bringing together individuals from all walks of life to revel in the wonder of both mathematics and culinary delights. Whether through lectures, museum exhibits, or the simple pleasure of indulging in a slice of pie, Pi Day invites us to embrace the beauty of numbers and the joy of discovery.

As we honour the legacy of π and its myriad applications in fields ranging from engineering to architecture, let us also celebrate the playful spirit that intertwines pi (π) with pie, making this day a delightful fusion of intellect and indulgence. In essence, Pi Day serves as a reminder of the richness and diversity of human experience, where the pursuit of knowledge intertwines seamlessly with the pleasures of everyday life. So, on this Pi Day and beyond, let us raise a slice of pie in tribute to the marvels of mathematics and the infinite possibilities it unveils. Happy Pi Day !

FAQs

1.What is Pi Day and why is it celebrated ?

Pi Day is observed globally on March 14th (3/14 in American date format) in honour of the mathematical constant Pi (π). It celebrates the significance of Pi in mathematics and its widespread applications in various fields.

2.What is the significance of the mathematical constant Pi ?

Pi is the ratio of a circle’s diameter to its circumference and is symbolised by the Greek letter π. It is a fundamental constant in mathematics, trigonometry, and geometry, with applications in science, engineering, and technology.

3.How is Pi calculated, and what methods have been used throughout history ?

Throughout history, various methods have been used to calculate Pi, including geometrical approximations by ancient civilizations, Archimedes’ method of inscribed and circumscribed polygons, and modern computational techniques using algorithms and computers.

4.Who initiated the observance of Pi Day, and how has it evolved over time ?

Physicist Larry Shaw of the Exploratorium museum in San Francisco initiated Pi Day in 1988. Since then, it has gained worldwide recognition and evolved into a day of public engagement with mathematics through lectures, exhibits, and fun activities like pie-eating contests.

5.Why is March 14th chosen as Pi Day, and are there other significant dates related to Pi ?

March 14th (3/14) corresponds to the first three digits of Pi (3.14). Additionally, there are other Pi-related dates such as Pi Approximation Day on July 22nd (22/7) and Two Pi Day (Tau Day) on June 28th (6/28).

6.What are some common activities and events held on Pi Day ?

Pi Day activities include lectures, museum exhibits, pie-eating contests, and educational events aimed at promoting awareness and appreciation of mathematics among the general public.

7.Why do mathematicians and educators promote awareness of Pi and its applications ?

Mathematicians and educators promote Pi awareness to highlight the importance of mathematics in everyday life, inspire curiosity, and foster a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts and their real-world applications.

8.How does Pi relate to everyday objects and engineering designs ?

Pi is essential in calculating dimensions and proportions for circular objects such as wheels, gears, and architectural structures like bridges and domes. It plays a crucial role in engineering, design, and construction

9.What is the relationship between Pi (π) and the dessert pie, and how is it celebrated ?

Pi Day celebrates the playful connection between the mathematical constant Pi and the dessert pie. Many people celebrate by enjoying pies of various flavours and participating in pie-related events alongside mathematical activities.

10.What is the global significance of Pi Day, and how does it contribute to public engagement with mathematics ?

Pi Day serves as a global platform to promote public engagement with mathematics, fostering interest, curiosity, and appreciation for the beauty and significance of mathematical concepts like Pi. It encourages participation in mathematical activities and highlights the relevance of mathematics in everyday life.